One billion to be spent on Sydney’s International Convention Centre

Construction has officially begun at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney – part of the $2.5 billion redevelopment project of Darling Harbour, Sydney’s world class convention, exhibition and entertainment precinct.

Work on the project could create thousands of jobs over the next two years, according to NSW Premier Mike Baird and Deputy Premier Andrew Stoner, who made the announcement on May 28.

“The NSW Liberals & Nationals Government is getting on with the job of transforming NSW by investing in infrastructure projects that help grow our economy and create jobs,” Baird said. “Today marks the start of construction on the largest, fully-integrated convention and exhibition facilities in Australia.

The construction of the new $1 billion convention, exhibition and entertainment facilities is part of a larger $2.5 billion redevelopment – the Darling Harbour Live project.

“At the peak of construction, there will be more than 1,200 workers on site, and at least 50 apprentices will work on the project over the duration, providing an attractive opportunity for vocational training,” Baird said.

Projected numbers total 3,700 jobs provided during construction, and a further 4,000 jobs once completed.

“Once completed, the new world-class convention, exhibition and entertainment facilities will ensure Sydney remains the first choice in Australia and the Asia Pacific for the lucrative business events industry,” Baird continued.

Combined, the Darling Harbour renewal, Barangaroo’s $6 billion redevelopment, the $1.6 billion Sydney Light Rail program and the pedestrian precinct are expected to reinvigorate the western flank of Sydney.

“The transformation of Darling Harbour alone will provide a boost to the state’s economy, with an estimated $5 billion to be generated in economic benefit during the next 25 years,” Stoner said. “While the revitalization of Darling Harbour is underway, Sydney will continue to play host to a range of major conventions.”

Stoner said the transformation of Darling Harbour would pay respect to the area’s rich history – which is the reason for a time capsule burial, which will contain a range of artifacts and information about the history of Darling Harbour.

“As we herald in the next chapter in Darling Harbour’s story, we have been mindful to keep the history of the precinct’s continual evolution alive for future generations by dedicating a time capsule,” Stoner said. “The time capsule contains mementos, video, imagery and information about Darling Harbour on the cusp of its biggest change in 25 years.